Library of Congress history project gives veterans a voice

The Library of Congress is giving war veterans a voice and a way to preserve their stories.

The Veterans History Project records veterans’ personal narratives and archives them in a permanent collection in the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The archives are available to historians, teachers and the general public.

Donnelly

Sen. Joe Donnelly’s staff will offer veterans a chance to share their stories when they host a Veterans History Project event from 1 to 3 p.m. Jan. 19 at the Hearth at Tudor Gardens, 11755 N. Michigan Rd., Zionsville. Donnelly’s staff will interview the veterans, but any volunteers from the public wanting to assist are able to do so by contacting Ryan Wiegand at Ryan_Wiegand@donnelly.senate.gov or by calling 317-226-5555. Veterans wanting to participate also should contact Wiegand.

“It’s important for veterans to get their stories recorded for future generations to better understand the realities of military service,” stated Madeline Carlos, Donnelly’s press assistant, in an email.

Donnelly hosted 10 Veterans History Project events in the state last year, collecting 84 interviews for the Library of Congress.

“The men and women who courageously served our country have moving stories to share about their service,” Donnelly stated. “It is important that we record their statements so that future generations have the opportunity to learn from their experiences and appreciate the sacrifices they have made to protect our freedoms.”